EveryLibrary Institute Releases “The Censorship Acceleration, An Analysis of Book Ban Trends After 2020” Report

From ELI:

The EveryLibrary Institute is proud to announce the publication of a groundbreaking new report by researcher Marianne Wood Forrest, “The Censorship Acceleration: An Analysis of Book Ban Trends After 2020.” This comprehensive report examines the growing scale, coordination, and political motivations behind the recent surge in book censorship within American schools and libraries.

Since 2020, efforts to censor books have shifted from isolated incidents to a nationwide movement, driven by well-funded political and religious organizations. “The Censorship Acceleration” explores how book bans have become a central tactic in a broader campaign aimed at destabilizing public education, promoting school privatization, and suppressing historically marginalized voices.

“Book bans are no longer simply about individual complaints or local concerns,” stated John Chrastka, executive director of The EveryLibrary Institute. “This report uncovers a sophisticated and interconnected political strategy intended to reshape our educational and cultural landscape. Understanding these underlying forces is crucial if we want to protect intellectual freedom, democratic education, and the future of public libraries.”

[Clip]

Key Takeaways in the Report:

• Book bans are increasingly motivated by powerful political and religious groups rather than by local parental concerns.
• Censorship campaigns are closely connected to school privatization and efforts against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
• Coordinated campaigns are nationalizing what were previously local conflicts within school boards.
• Resistance is growing, particularly from student-led movements and states passing right-to-read legislation.
• The future of libraries, education, and civ il liberties is at a critical juncture and requires urgent advocacy.

Read the Complete Release, Register to Access Full Text Report (Free)

Filed under: Associations and Organizations, Libraries, News, Public Libraries